I really like old fashioned lockets which can be opened.... so I tried one. I'm very happy with the result.
Unfortunately, I guess it can't be sold it via shapways, cause multiple objects are not allowed for the materials "stainless steel" and "silver".
There are only exceptions for cufflinks and earrings.
I could split it in two files but this would be kind of confusing for potential customers. Of course it would be also more expensive.
After it was rejected cause of multiple parts, I've connected it to one object. It needed some cutting and polishing but it looks nice now.

I would love to see "lockets" added to the list of "multiple parts exceptions". Any chance for this?

Very nice work! I especially like your use of the necklace thread as the hinge pin. It solves what is otherwise a sticky problem that can only be solved by adding bulky shapes. This is very elegant, especially if it could be delivered assembled.

I would like multi-part metal designs to be allowed by simply adding another handling fee for each part. As for the presentation, even if the human effort involved in assembly might incur another fee, similar to the silver polishing, it would be worth it to enable more variety and quality in our designs.

I really like your design! Smart solution with the hinge as said before.

I'm currently working on a locket as well! I didn't know that for steel and you couldn't have multiple parts.. good to know. I hope they will add lockets to the list of exceptions or find another solution..

I am surprised that Shapeways is making you print this as two files. My model Pendant Cage is two pieces and I have not had the model rejected. How would my pendant count as OK under the "earrings and cufflinks" clause but your pendant wouldn't? Either both of our models should be printable or neither of them should be.

Earrings and cufflinks are allowed to be printed in pairs because it is traditional, but the processing resources for a pair of earrings or cufflinks would seem to be identical to the processing resources necessary for any two objects of similar size. It should not matter what the purpose of the end product is, the policy should be based on the number of objects in a file.

I propose that Shapeways institute a policy based on the number of objects in a file. Two objects in a file would not increase the handling cost, and each additional object after the second should be a set fee ($3-$4) per additional object.

I don't mean to hijack the thread, I just think Shapeways should be able to print your model in one file. I am adding this to the feedback thread you have already created here.

it took a year but the Floral Locket is now in the shop!
There were a few issues which couldn't ensure the printabilty ... weak walls, multiple objects, a lock that had to be grinded for perfect fit ...
I did some enhancements and got my test-print today. It works really well now!

Just upload them as very BIG earrings!..... But, seriously, @ceramicwombat, in answer to your question, there are MANY models breaking the "rules" here and this is something that needs to be addressed.

this thread started a year ago. A few month ago shapways changed the description of the stainless steel design rules to:
"Multiple Part per STL: Yes. Best for earrings and cufflinks--multipart files drastically increase handling costs overall, and we want to keep giving everyone the best price."
I think a pair of objects is no longer a problem. This is acutally great!
Cheers!
Michael